Novak Djokovic will miss the opportunity to overtake Federer and Nadal in grand slams won if he fails to compete at this year’s Australian Open
By Kehinde Okeowo
World number one tennis player Novak Djokovic faces the risk of missing out on the first grand slam of the year and defending his title, as he has been denied entry into Australia over an issue with his visa.
The 32-year-old arrived in Melbourne on Wednesday where authorities noticed a mistake on his application and raised a query.
The reigning Australian Open champion was held up at passport control on Wednesday night at Tullamarine airport in Melbourne, the host city of the tournament, for several hours late at night as he was questioned.
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The Australian Border Force confirmed on Thursday morning he would not be allowed to remain in the country.
“The ABF will continue to ensure that those who arrive at our border comply with our laws and entry requirements,” a statement read. “The ABF can confirm that Mr Djokovic failed to provide appropriate evidence to meet the entry requirements to Australia, and his visa has been subsequently cancelled.
“Non-citizens who do not hold a valid visa on entry or who have had their visa cancelled will be detained and removed from Australia. The ABF can confirm Mr Djokovic had access to his phone.”
On Wednesday Scott Morrison, the Australian prime minister, added his voice to the furore, saying Djokovic would be “on the next plane home” if he was unable to provide proof of his medical exemption. “If that evidence is insufficient, then he won’t be treated any different to anyone else and he’ll be on the next plane home. There should be no special rules for Novak Djokovic at all. None whatsoever.”
Djokovic was due to play in the Australian Open after it was initially reported that he had been exempted from vaccination rules.
He will be flown out of the country later on Thursday, however, some media reports indicate his lawyers said they will be challenging the decision.
Australia is known for its strict covid-19 rules, while Djokovic’s opposition to vaccination is also well known, fuelling the criticism inside Melbourne, Victoria, and across Australia.
Djokovic can win his 21st grand slam singles title and overtake Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in the process if his appeal falls through.
The tournament is set to begin on 17 January, meaning the defending champion may miss the competition if his appeal fails; he has just 11 days to ensure his participation in the prestigious tournament.
